The 22nd Asia-Pacific Retailers Convention & Exhibition (APRCE) is a premier
international convention and exhibition where leaders of the retail sector from 18
countries and regions across the Asia-Pacific, all members of the Federation of Asia-
Pacific Retailers Associations (FAPRA), gather under one roof.
It has been 19 years since Japan—Tokyo—last hosted this prestigious event. Under the theme “The Future of Retail: Innovation Meets Tradition,” we expect to welcome over 4,000 participants to the International Conference and more than 10,000 visitors to the Exhibition from Japan and around the world.
At the Conference, more than 60 distinguished leaders
and experts from Japan and overseas will deliver keynote addresses and presentations.
At the Exhibition, RETAIL EXPO Tokyo 2026, companies in cutting-edge retail solutions, advanced retail technologies, and Japan’s traditional culture will showcase their latest offerings.
In addition,
under the special program titled “J Subculture × Retail Business,” we will present unique initiatives that connect Japan’s iconic character culture and subculture with the retail industry.
During the preparation for this Convention, we have worked closely with leaders of retail associations across the Asia-Pacific region, sharing the conviction that strengthening solidarity,
ensuring stable economic growth, and enhancing safety are core responsibilities of the retail industry—and that together, we can contribute to building a peaceful and prosperous international community.
We sincerely hope that
APRCE 2026 will serve as an opportunity for all participants to engage, exchange insights, and spark new business opportunities; to experience the rich appeal of Japan; and to feel the strong potential and dynamism of the retail industry in the Asia-Pacific region.
We look forward to welcoming many of you to APRCE 2026.
Hirofumi Nomoto
President, The 22nd Asia-Pacific Retailers Convention &
Exhibition
Chairman, The Japan Retailers Association
It gives me immense pleasure, as Chairman of the Federation of Asia Pacific
Retailers Associations (FAPRA), to welcome you to the 22nd Asia-Pacific Retailers Convention &
Exhibition (APRCE 2026) in Tokyo, Japan.
This edition carries special significance. The very first APRCE was held in Japan in 1983,
alongside the formation of FAPRA, an organisation proudly formed by retailers, for retailers . Over four decades later, and after 21 successful conventions across our diverse region, we return to where it all began for a third time. It is both a homecoming and a celebration of how far retail in Asia-Pacific has
progressed.
Today, FAPRA represents retail associations across 18 economies, serving as the apex body for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and industry advancement in our region. APRCE remains the flagship platform that brings this purpose to life, uniting thought leaders, practitioners, innovators, and policymakers to shape the future of commerce.
The theme of APRCE 2026, “The Future of Retail: Innovation Meets Tradition,” is timely and profound.
Retail is transforming at unprecedented speed, driven by technology, evolving consumer expectations,
sustainability imperatives, and new economic realities. Yet, at its heart, retail remains rooted in trust, service, and community, values deeply embedded in Japan’s retail heritage.
With Asia Pacific accounting for nearly 60% of the world’s population, contributing over half of global GDP, and representing more than 60% of global e-commerce activity, the region firmly stands as the epicentre of global retail growth and digital innovation. There could be no better setting than Tokyo, one of the world’s finest retail destinations, to explore what lies ahead.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the Japan Retailers Association and its Chair, Mr Hirofumi Nomoto, for their visionary leadership in hosting this landmark event.
I wish APRCE 2026 every success and look forward to a truly inspiring gathering.
Murali Prakash
Chairman - Federation of Asia Pacific Retailers Associations
(FAPRA)